Greek State Broadcaster Is Covering Its Own Demise As Austerity Forces It Off The Air

The Greek government announced today that it is planning to shut down state broadcaster ERT tonight, using an emergency bill to force the action without parliament's approval.

The motive behind the surprise move is simple — austerity. ERT's radio and television stations cost the country 300 million euros ($398.24 million) a year, Reuters reports, and the broadcaster's cost has been described as an "incredible waste" by a government spokesperson.

The company's 2,700 employees have been offered compensation and a chance to reapply for jobs at a smaller, leaner organization, but that hasn't stopped employees and supporters protesting the news.